Small Business Tool Kit

from Valley Business FRONT, Issue 147, December 2020

Virginia Western Community College’s Amy White

Leading from the edge of your seat

Leadership, leadership, leadership. A topic of many conversations these days. It is not difficult to distinguish great leadership from average or even poor leadership. In the business world, strong leadership is almost tangible with evidence of success coming through financial gain. Some people just seem to be more adept at leadership - consistent self-awareness, inspiring communication of a vision, and the gift of keeping the almighty ego in check. They get comfortable leading from the edge of their seat, ready to adapt in a moment’s notice based on what challenge is coming their team’s way.

Some years ago, I attended a 7-day intensive program through the Center for Creative Leadership called, Developing the Strategic Leader. It was an extremely comprehensive leadership program packed full of “mirrors” that came in the form of confidential surveys about me as a leader, from my staff, my peers, and my bosses. The exercise of viewing your leadership through the lenses of others was powerful. I learned what others needed from me in order to be productive, inspired, and included.

Leadership is the fulcrum that moves mountains. The best leaders embody what they say they’re after both in words and in actions. If you’ve ever been in the presence of a great leader, the first thing you sense is authenticity. This reflection of integrity and charisma creates a natural trust and loyalty; such an environment is one that everyone can fully support.

Strong leaders shine even brighter when things are not going their way. Why? Because the people around them are loyal and motivated to work harder as they observe their leader consistently demonstrating his/her dedication to the dream, acknowledgements of his/her own failures, and a willingness to empower employees.

So why then aren’t there more legendary leaders in our midst? I understand that this leadership deal is not for the faint of heart. In order to advance as a stronger, more effective leader, we must be highly motivated to do the work of true self-evaluation and seek feedback from those we lead. We must implement personal change with disciplined self-control in the midst of doing the day to day work, all while we rise to motivate and inspire people to deliver on a shared vision. It’s hard fought work becoming a strong leader.

If we muster the grit to fight the good fight of becoming a more effective leader, the rewards are rich and will transform our organizations, our team, and our community as a whole.